Some worry arts classes being left behind

[25 January 2008 - The Oklahoman] Americans want schoolchildren to learn the arts along with basic subjects, according to a new poll that gives ammunition to those pushing for more creativity in education. The poll was released at a news conference here Thursday that featured representatives of various educational and other organizations, including the Oklahoma Creativity Project, that are trying to encourage imagination and innovation. Some said they were worried music and art classes were becoming victims of the increasing focus in schools on standardized testing. John Wilson, executive director of the National Education Association, said teachers feel like they're wearing an "instructional straightjacket” because of the requirements of the federal No Child Left Behind act and by states. More